The Tyler's Place Podcast

From the Venerable Master (March, 2010)

Brethren and Ladies:

Did you realize that in Freemasonry, the ubiquitous square represents the morality and ethical conduct that forms the basis of a Mason’s every action? Just as builders use a square to test right angles, a Mason constantly tests his behavior by the “square of virtue”. As Scottish Rite Masons we should always try to improve ourselves not only by increasing our knowledge of Masonry, but also by helping the members of our Masonic family.

I would like to commend everyone who planned and participated in the February Grand Master’s reception and Sweethearts’ dinner. The Knights of St. Andrews, under the direction of First Knight Gerry Best and assisted by B. J. McCuiston, 32° KCCH, were particularly impressive in presenting the Arch of Steel for the Most Worshipful Ken Nagel, Grand Master of Masons in California, 33°, and Lady Kathy. I would also like to thank Illustrious Dan McDaniel, 33°, for his invaluable help and support.

Thanks to Bro. Chuck Cowden 32° KCCH (Elect) we are continuing with our Nights of Instruction and the Master Craftsman program course. I encourage you to participate in these activities. Take it from me; you will learn a lot from the Master Craftsman course! I’d also like to thank Richard Fisher 32° KCCH, for volunteering to continue to head the Scholarship program for high school seniors.

On March 28th we will be conferring the Knight Commander Court of Honor degree on Bro. Chuck Cowden and 5 Scottish Rite Brothers from other Valleys who were unable to attend the 2009 ceremonies in Oakland. Please plan to attend to honor these Brothers.

It is again nearing Easter and Good Friday. The Ceremony of Remembrance and Renewal will be presented twice this year. The first event will be held at Soquel Lodge on Wednesday, March 31st. The second ceremony will be held on April 1st at the San Jose Scottish Rite Center. Richard Fisher 32° KCCH will be providing further details at our March stated meeting.

We will also be holding the first of two Reunions during the month of April, starting with the 4th degree at our April 13th Stated Meeting. The 5th thru 17th degrees will be awarded on April 27 and 18th through 32nd degrees on Friday, April 30th and Saturday, May 1st. There will be a banquet honoring the new Scottish Rite Masons and their ladies on the evening of May 1st. For more information, please contact Hal Leister 32° KCCH, Degree Director. I hope that you have already identified one or more Master Masons as candidates for San Jose Scottish Rite membership, so that we may have a record-breaking class in April.